Wines

2016 The Silurian

Celebrating the geology of our vineyard site, dating from the Silurian period, this fresh and zesty aperitif-style sparkling is one of our favourites to grow, to make and to drink!

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Winemaker's Notes

THE SILURIAN
The name refers to the geological age (ca. 430 million years) of the rock from which our soils are derived. The Silurian is made in the traditional method from the classic varieties, chardonnay and pinot noir. The cool to mild Canberra District climate, coupled with exacting viticulture, allows harvest of these varieties at relatively low sugar ripeness, high acidity, and the delicate fruit flavours required for this very elegant style of sparkling wine. Lees age prior to disgorging gives autolysis complexity, creamy texture and a very fine mousse.

2016 VINTAGE
The 2015-2016 season was our warmest to date (as measured by Growing Degree Days), illustrating the ongoing effect of global warming. Very hot weather in early Spring ensured that the season was early throughout, with the commencement of harvest (5th Feb for sparkling base) being another record. The season was generally benign, with a warm stretch of weather from mid-February to mid-March bringing many varieties to ripeness at a rapid rate. Irrigation during this time was important to most blocks, and ensured that good yields of high quality fruit were harvested. 2016 would be considered a standout vintage for us if it weren’t slightly shaded by 2015, with the best of the two depending on variety.

WINEMAKING
Hand-picked 5-12 February 2016: Chardonnay (75%) at 9.7Bé and 12.2g/L titratable acidity; Pinot Noir (25%) at 10.6Bé and 9.8g/L titratable acidity. Fruit was chilled in the picking lugs prior to whole bunch pressing, and only modest juice yields taken. The base wine were fermented with neutral yeast and spent several months on yeast lees prior to blending and tirage in December 2016. Part (22%) was fermented and matured in older oak, including malolactic fermentation. Fourth disgorging April 2018; stainless steel crown seal, dosage 5.0g/L. Alcohol 11.5% by volume. Vegan friendly?: No (fined with a milk product).